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I adore jeans, but I despise shopping for them. Trying to find a style with legs that don't fall too short or too long (I'm 5'7"), that are flattering on the bum but not too tight on the thighs, and can withstand several washes, feels close to impossible.
It's the reason I've always stayed loyal to the same cuts from American label Frame - to avoid the headache of hunting through High Street rails. In fact, I resigned myself to always spending that bit extra on denim (my preferred style from Frame costs £250), as I didn't think anywhere on the High Street could deliver quality jeans. That is, until now. Marks & Spencer's new denim collection has made me seriously reconsider affordable jeans.
Launched last week, the new range consists of 20 styles across eight washes with inclusive sizing from 6 to 24 and multiple leg lengths, from extra-short to extra-long options on select styles.
So, as a discerning denim devotee, I headed off to the Marble Arch store to (gulp) try on all the new pairs on offer.
My first pick was the wide-leg turn-up jeans - a surprise as I usually prefer sweeping, floor-skimming cuts. But this shorter leg is perfect for pairing with a heeled boot or showing off a snazzy trainer, plus they won't get caught in puddles. I typically favour a mid-blue wash, but found the lighter denim was the more flattering option.
Next was the barrel-leg - a style I had long ago decided didn't suit me. But this M&S cut, that comes in three blue washes, has just the right amount of curve, so you get that high-fashion silhouette without looking silly. The lighter pair has a frayed edge, so pair with a white tee for a classic casual look.
My next choice is the palazzo cut in ecru. Most women, myself included, run a mile at the thought of wearing white jeans. Admittedly, these are not a practical choice, but they'll be absolutely perfect for the spring. And this creamy ecru is more sophisticated (and slimming!) than flashy white. The double pleats add chic drama to the wide-leg design.
Then, the mid-blue wash barrel-leg. I usually avoid double denim, but it pairs perfectly with the collection's denim fitted shirt - consider me converted!
I love flared jeans, but initially wasn't convinced by this pair as it has front pockets - I tend to find this adds unwanted bulk. However, on these jeans they are pleasingly discreet. If you’re a fan of ultra-stretchy jeans, you’ll like this design though I personally prefer a stiffer material so I don’t feel like I’m wearing leggings.
My pick of the bunch, though, was this wide-leg, dual-tone pair. The darker side strip is extremely flattering and creates the illusion of longer legs. Pair with kitten heels for instant polish.